Functional Threshold Power (FTP) Training Zones

What is Functional Threshold Power?

Functional Threshold Power (FTP) represents your ability to sustain the highest possible power output over 45 to 60 minutes, depending on whether you’re a trained athlete or not. As a result 95% of the 20 minute average power is used to determine FTP.

Why measure FTP?

Regular assessments of your FTP give you an indication of whether you are improving your performance. Plus, FTP provides a good ‘benchmark’ on which to base cycling-specific training zones.

How to measure your FTP

The best way to measure your FTP is with a 20 minute test on the Wattbike. Once you’ve completed the 20 minute test, note your average power and average heart rate.

Tip 1: Make sure you start the 20 minute test at an intensity you can sustain throughout but also one that allows you to give maximal effort. The above image shows an even well-paced 20 minute test.

Calculating your FTP

Your FTP score is calculated using 95% of your average power across your 20 minute test.

FTP training zones defined

Once you have calculated your FTP score, you can use this as a base for your training zones:

Training Zone

Purpose

Physiological adaptions

How this helps

Average Power

Average HR

Zone 1

Active Recovery

Increase blood flow to muscles to flush out waste products and provide nutrients

Promotes recovery and therefore training response

< 55%

< 68%

Zone 2

Endurance

Improves fat metabolism and ability to use oxygen, produce power and increases efficiency. Increases economy

More efficient use of energy. Able to produce more power with the same level of effort, works on technique/skill